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How might someone get into the automotive flied by studying engineering?

Hi, I am studying engineering, and I am interested in the automotive industry. I study mechanical engineering and am trying to find a way in.

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Karin’s Answer

Hi Julian Herrera,

If you want to be an engineer in the automotive industry, you are in the right major! If you want to set yourself up for a job in the automotive industry, look for internships and hand-on experiences.

You didn't indicate which college you (plan to) attend, but University of Arizona offers a bachelors in mechanical engineering. You can get hands-on experience relevant to the automotive industry by choosing a suitable senior design project. There are also clubs like the Baja and Formula race teams.

Arizona State University offers a bachelors in mechanical engineering with concentration in automotive systems.

I hope this helps! All the best to you!

KP

Karin recommends the following next steps:

https://ame.engineering.arizona.edu
https://degrees.apps.asu.edu/bachelors/major/ASU00/TSEGRASBSE/engineering-automotive-systems
https://www.collegetransitions.com/blog/best-automotive-engineering-schools/
Thank you comment icon Hello Karin Vielen, Danke for your answer. I go to NAU, and I am the President of the SAE club here at NAU. I am also studying German and planning on studying in Germany in Dresden at HTW because of their automotive lab. Because you live in Saxony, I was wondering if you've heard anything about the school? Julian Herrera
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Frank’s Answer

The automotive and transportation industry is a great career for an engineer. I recommend getting an older car and modifying it. Not only will you get hands on experience, you'll definitely impress future employers. I worked in the automotive industry and many, if not all the engineers, were car people. Some of them competed in amateur racing. Try some low buck racing in your area. It looks like there's a few in the Phoenix area.

Best of luck!
Thank you comment icon Thank you, Frank! Julian Herrera
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Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer

Studying mechanical engineering provides a strong foundation for a career in the automotive industry. To build on this, focus on courses and projects related to vehicle systems, such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials science, and control systems. Gain expertise in electric drivetrains, hybrid systems, vehicle dynamics simulation, and CAD/CAE software. Tools like SolidWorks, CATIA, Autodesk Inventor, and ANSYS are widely used, and online platforms like GrabCAD, Onshape, SimScale, and Coursera offer free or low-cost ways to practice hands-on skills. Participating in competitions like Formula SAE or electric vehicle projects, completing internships, volunteering in engineering-related activities, and shadowing professionals provide valuable real-world experience. Joining engineering clubs, professional associations, and attending automotive conferences can help you build connections, gain mentorship, and access career opportunities.

By combining a strong engineering foundation, practical experience, specialized skills, and professional connections, you can create a clear path from your studies to a successful career in the automotive sector. Staying proactive, continuously learning, volunteering, and seeking hands-on exposure will make you a competitive candidate ready to contribute to the future of automotive engineering.
Thank you comment icon Thank you, this is really helpful. Julian Herrera
Thank you comment icon You're welcome! Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
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